On November 18, 1929, some actions which culminated in the Aba Women's Riot began in Oloko, Abia State in southeast Nigeria.
The unrest was sparked by British colonial policies imposing head taxes on women and the use of census to enforce them. This system, introduced under warrant chiefs, deeply disrupted traditional governance and economic stability.
The immediate trigger was a confrontation between Nwanyeruwa, a widow, and a census official. Upon learning that the census could lead to taxation, she refused it and mobilised other women to join in resisting it. Protests soon spread, employing traditional practices like "sitting on a man," which involved symbolic songs and dances to challenge authorities.
The movement spread to other parts of the South East and evolved into a major uprising against colonial policies and oppressive governance. Till date, the Aba Women Riot is still remembered as a resistance against injustice led by women.
Other key events on this day
1. Saddam offerred to free an estimated 2,000 men held in Kuwait - 1990
2. 31 died in a fire at King's Cross, London's busiest subway station - 1987
3. King Hassan II opened the first parliament in Morocco - 1963
4. Philip Effiong, the first Vice President and the second and last President of the defunct Republic of Biafra, was born - 1925
5. 444 British bombers attacked Berlin - 1943
6. Mass suicide occurred at Jonestown, US - 1978
7. Railroads created the first time zones - 1883
8. Hitler became furious and took actions over Italy's debacle in Greece - 1940
9. Thousands died in massive flood at European shores of North Sea - 1421
10. November 18th proclaimed as Davido's Day after Atlanta shut down - 2023.
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